Newberg Relief Nursery, dedicated to supporting young children and their families wanted to revitalize their play area to better meet the needs of their students and staff. The previous grassy play area was underutilized and wasn’t meeting its potential, which made it challenging for staff to effectively manage different play activities and user groups.

Learning Landscapes Design designed a playscape that addresses these challenges while integrating educational and sensory experiences within a small space. The redesign transforms the once unstructured area into a cohesive, functional environment.

A dedicated sand area invites children to dig, build, and explore with imaginative elements such as a hand water pump, and a live willow tunnel. A custom playhouse with themed sensory elements and an assortment of loose parts materials provided by the nursery, allow for endless creativity and imaginative play.

The physical play zone where children can run, jump, climb, slide, and balance is centered around a natural grass and boulder mound. Log steppers and balance planks allow kids to practice balance and large motor skills.